All new homes must be carbon neutral by 2010 to reduce residential carbon dioxide emissions, Friends of the Earth has said.

Current government guidelines only require new homes to be carbon neutral by 2016, but campaigners insist that this is not good enough.

"The government must insist that all new homes are carbon neutral by at least 2010," said Friends of the Earth housing campaigner Paul de Zylva.

"Our homes are responsible for over a quarter of UK carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon zero homes can already be built so there is no need to wait until 2016 for the government to act on this," he insisted.

The group also claims that existing homes should be retro-fitted to improve energy efficiency, including measures such as increased insulation and double glazing.

Mr de Zylva emphasised that individual homes should meet the highest environmental standards.

"This means ensuring that new developments have clear plans for water supply, waste disposal and protection from flooding caused by extreme weather events," he added.

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Author:  Joanne McCabe

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